An Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN) is a physician specializing in women's reproductive health, including pregnancy, childbirth, and disorders of the female reproductive system. They provide a combination of primary and specialized medical care related to obstetrics and gynecology.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Internship/residency
Projected Growth: 2.2% (average)
Annual job openings: 600
Direct AI exposure: 18% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 43% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $293K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $95K per year | $180K per year | $293K per year | $369K per year | $437K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $242K above the national average. | ||||
OB/GYNs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private clinics, and group practices. Their work often involves irregular hours, including nights and weekends, due to the unpredictable nature of childbirth and emergency gynecological procedures.
Obstetricians/Gynecologists play a critical role in women's health care, covering a broad spectrum of issues from adolescence through menopause and beyond. They are uniquely positioned to build long-term relationships with patients, providing continuity of care that spans decades. OB/GYNs combine surgical skills with medical expertise to manage a variety of conditions, making their practice both diverse and dynamic.
The field is highly demanding but equally rewarding, requiring extensive knowledge of both obstetrics and gynecology. OB/GYNs must be adept in various surgical procedures and comfortable making quick, often critical decisions, especially during childbirth. Their practice is not limited to physical health but also encompasses the psychological and social aspects of women's health, requiring strong communication and empathy.
OB/GYNs must keep abreast of the latest medical advancements and technologies in their field. The profession demands lifelong learning and adaptation to improve patient outcomes and embrace innovative treatment methods. Their role extends beyond individual patient care, often involving public health advocacy, health education, and contributing to research in women's health.
Becoming an OB/GYN requires completing a 4-year undergraduate degree, 4 years of medical school, followed by a residency program in obstetrics and gynecology, typically lasting 4 years. Some pursue further subspecialty training through fellowships.
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